The Dispatch Podcast

Former National Security Advisor John Bolton shares his views on recent U.S. strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities, advocating for decisive action from the Trump administration. National correspondent Kevin Williamson discusses Israel’s strategic role and potential Iranian retaliation. Mike Nelson, a retired Army Special Forces officer, emphasizes the implications of the strikes on regional stability. Charlotte Lawson offers insider insights on Israel's response, framing the ongoing geopolitical tensions and considering the challenges of regime change.

John McCormack, a political analyst focused on the MAGA coalition, joins a roundtable of commentators to dissect the complex landscape of U.S.-Israel-Iran relations. They debate whether it's time to target Iran’s Fordow nuclear site and discuss Trump's contradictory stance on Israeli military action. The conversation also touches on Tulsi Gabbard's relevance in today's politics, the evolving nature of Trumpism, and historical comparisons of Trump’s policies to figures like Henry VIII, revealing the tensions and contradictions within the Republican Party.

Nadav Eyal, an Israeli journalist and senior political correspondent for Yediot HaVonot, delves into Israel's recent military actions against Iran. He analyzes the strategic goals behind degrading Iran’s nuclear capabilities and discusses the complex dynamics of regime change. Eyal also explores U.S. involvement and the public sentiment in Israel surrounding military engagements, revealing a mix of support against Iran's ambitions and skepticism towards leadership. The conversation brings to light the broader geopolitical implications of this escalating conflict.

In a riveting discussion, David French, an attorney and senior editor at The Dispatch, joins Jonah Goldberg, Steve Hayes, and Sarah Isgur to analyze the chaos of the Los Angeles riots and their implications. They explore the nuanced definition of 'insurrection' and how the unrest might impact Trump's public image. The conversation delves into the use of military force in domestic issues, raising concerns over democracy and civil liberties while addressing the current immigration enforcement strategies and the powerful narratives surrounding unrest.

Mitch Landrieu, the former Mayor of New Orleans and a senior advisor to President Biden, shares insights on the Democratic Party's challenges. He discusses perceptions of Biden’s mental acuity and defends his leadership amid criticism. Landrieu emphasizes the need for Democrats to reconnect with working-class voters by addressing core issues like economic stability and immigration. He also critiques political division and the importance of bipartisan cooperation to foster effective governance. His anecdotes offer a unique glimpse into the dynamics of contemporary politics.

Megan McArdle, a Washington Post columnist known for her political and economic insights, and journalist Mike Warren engage in a compelling discussion about the alarming rise in antisemitic violence. They explore the complexities of the pro-Palestinian movement, the troubling behaviors of young activists, and the role of influencers like Tucker Carlson in today’s political landscape. Personal encounters with antisemitism are shared, highlighting a sense of insecurity in Jewish communities and the urgent need for respectful engagement in political discourse.

Megan McArdle, a columnist for the Washington Post known for her insights on economics and public policy, discusses the critical need for America to seize the lead in the A.I. race. She reflects on the early days of Trump's presidency, elaborating on its unpredictable nature. McArdle also touches on the evolving job market due to A.I., emphasizing the importance of interpersonal skills. Additionally, she explores how A.I. not only reshapes productivity but also creates new opportunities while posing significant challenges for the workforce.

Grayson Logue, a staff writer for Dispatch, dives into the legal battles surrounding Trump's Liberation Day tariffs. He discusses the significant court rulings challenging the president's authority and potential implications for the economy. The conversation also touches on the controversial pardons issued by Trump, raising questions about corruption and the rule of law. Additionally, Logue explores Trump's complex relationship with Putin within the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions, providing insights into the current political landscape.

Matti Friedman, a seasoned journalist and author known for his analysis of Israeli society, discusses Israel's complex leadership crisis amid its conflict with Hamas. He examines the precarious balance between military objectives and the return of hostages, emphasizing public dissatisfaction with the government. The conversation highlights perceptions of American leadership and the looming threat of Iranian nuclear ambitions. Friedman also reflects on the absence of cultural icons like Leonard Cohen during wartime, questioning what we lose when art and politics intertwine.

Join Capitol Hill reporter Charles Hilu as he unpacks the implications of the House's recent 'big beautiful bill' and its controversial tax provisions. The discussion dives into President Biden's cognitive decline and how it's portrayed in the media, highlighting the perceived biases in political reporting. The roundtable also tackles the accountability of journalists and the impact of AI on entry-level job markets, raising vital questions about the future of employment in an evolving landscape.